Baffle box comforter

ABSTRACT

A comforter according to aspects of the disclosure includes a first fabric panel, a second fabric panel, and a baffle floor. The baffle floor extends between the first and second vertical edges of the comforter. The baffle floor has a first end attached to the first fabric panel and a second end attached to the second fabric panel. The first end of the baffle floor is attached to the first fabric at a first position and the second end of the baffle floor is attached to the second fabric panel at a second position, the first and second positions being vertically spaced apart from one another in a direction extending between the first and second lateral edges.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Baffle box comforters are typically manufactured from a fabric shellwith baffle sidewalls and baffle floors that intersect one another toform multiple chambers, as well as a natural or synthetic fillingdisposed within each of the chambers. The baffle sidewalls arepositioned between two fabric panels that form the outer fabric shell.One end of each baffle sidewall is attached to the first fabric paneland the opposite end of each baffle sidewall is attached to the secondfabric panel. The baffle sidewalls can be helpful to minimize cold spotswithin the comforter by preventing the fill material from bunching up,as well as allowing the fill material to expand to its greatestpotential loft. However, cold spots remain present within the comforterat the corners of the chambers where the baffle sidewalls and bafflefloors intersect. Various designs have been implemented to address theseshortcomings, but improvements are still needed.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A comforter according to aspects of the disclosure includes a firstfabric panel, a second fabric panel, and a baffle floor. The bafflefloor extends between the first and second vertical edges of thecomforter. The baffle floor has a first end attached to the first fabricpanel and a second end attached to the second fabric panel. The firstend of the baffle floor is attached to the first fabric at a firstposition and the second end of the baffle floor is attached to thesecond fabric panel at a second position, the first and second positionsbeing vertically spaced apart from one another in a direction extendingbetween the first and second lateral edges.

In one example of this aspect, the comforter further includes a bafflesidewall that extends in a direction between the first and secondlateral edges. The baffle sidewall may have a first end attached to thefirst fabric panel and a second end attached to the second fabric panel.The first end of the baffle sidewall may be attached to the first fabricat a third position and the second end of the baffle sidewall may beattached to the second fabric panel at a fourth position. The third andfourth positions may be laterally spaced apart from one another in adirection that extends between the first and second vertical edges. Insome examples, the first end of the baffle floor is closer to the secondvertical edge than the second end of the baffle floor, and the first endof the baffle sidewall is closer to the first vertical sidewall than thesecond end of the baffle sidewall. In other examples, the first end ofthe baffle floor may be spaced apart from the second end of the bafflefloor by a length of at least 2.75 inches. Similarly, the baffle floormay have a slope ranging from 0 to 90 degrees. The slope may varydepending, in part, upon how much fill is provided within the comforter.

In another example of this aspect, the first fabric panel is comprisedof a first material and the baffle floor is comprised of a differentmaterial than the first fabric panel. In some examples, the differentmaterial may be a mesh material.

In yet another example of this aspect, the comforter includes aplurality of chambers, wherein the baffle floor forms a row, and thebaffle sidewall is a plurality of baffle sidewalls positioned within thefirst row, each of the plurality of baffle sidewalls having a first endattached to the first fabric panel and a second end attached to thesecond fabric panel, the plurality of chambers formed by theintersection of the plurality of sidewalls and the baffle floor. In someexamples, a fill material may be positioned within each of the pluralityof chambers. The fill material may include a first fill material and asecond fill material, where the first fill material is in at least oneof the plurality of chambers and the second fill material is in at leastone other of the plurality of chambers. The first and second fillmaterial may be the same.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, a method of manufacturinga comforter includes positioning a baffle floor between a first fabricpanel and second fabric panel; attaching a first end of the baffle floorto the first fabric panel at a first position and a second end of thesecond baffle floor to the second fabric panel at a second position sothat the first position and the second position are spaced apart fromone another in a vertical direction extending between a first lateraledge and a second lateral edge of the first fabric panel; positioning abaffle sidewall between a first fabric panel and second fabric panel sothat the baffle sidewall intersects the baffle floor; and attaching afirst end of the baffle sidewall to the first fabric panel at a thirdpoint and a second end of the second baffle sidewall to the secondfabric panel at a fourth point so that the third point and the fourthpoint are spaced apart from one another in a lateral direction extendingbetween a first vertical edge and a second vertical edge of the firstfabric panel. The first and second vertical edges may extend in adirection perpendicular to the first and second lateral edges.

In one example of this aspect, the method further includes forming atleast one chamber by positioning the baffle sidewall adjacent the bafflefloor so as to form an intersection between the baffle sidewall and thebaffle floor. In another example, the method further includes fillingthe chamber with a fill material.

In another example of this aspect, the first point is closer to thefirst lateral edge than the second point. Additionally, the third pointmay be closer to the first vertical edge than the fourth point.

Aspects of the disclosure are directed to a baffle box comforter. In oneexample, a baffle box comforter includes first and second fabric panels,an intermediate fabric panel positioned between the first and secondfabric panels, and a baffle sidewall attached to the intermediatefabric. The first and second fabric panels can be joined together attheir outer edges to form an outer perimeter of the baffle boxcomforter. The outer perimeter can include first and second verticaledges and first and second lateral edges that extend between the firstand second vertical edges. The outer perimeter may have a firstdimension. The outer edges of the intermediate fabric panel may bejoined to the outer edges of the first and second fabric panels. Theintermediate fabric may have a second dimension substantially equal tothe first dimension. A first baffle sidewall may extend away from theintermediate fabric panel toward the first fabric panel. A second bafflesidewall may extend away from the intermediate fabric panel toward thesecond fabric panel. The first baffle sidewall may be attached to theintermediate fabric panel at a first position and the second bafflesidewall may be attached to the intermediate fabric panel at a secondposition, the first and second positions being spaced apart from oneanother along the length of the intermediate fabric panel.

According to another aspect, an example baffle box comforter may includea first fabric panel and a second fabric panel joined to the firstfabric panel, an interior space between the first and second fabrics, aplurality of baffle floors, a plurality of baffle sidewalls, and aplurality of openings within the baffle floors. The first and secondopposed vertical edges may be formed at outer edges of the joined firstand second fabric panels. The plurality of baffle floors may bepositioned within the interior space. Each of the plurality of bafflefloors may have a length extending between the first and second verticaledges. The plurality of baffle floors may be spaced apart from oneanother along a longitudinal length of the first and second verticaledges. The floors may separate the interior space into a plurality ofrows. A plurality of baffle sidewalls may be positioned within each ofthe plurality of rows. Each of the plurality of baffle sidewalls mayhave a main body that extends between the first and second fabrics. Theplurality of baffle sidewalls may form a first acute angle between themain body and the first fabric. Each of the plurality of openings may bepositioned adjacent the baffle sidewalls and extend an entire lengthbetween the first and second fabric panels.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front plan view of a baffle box comforter according to anaspect of the disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a top plan view of a fabric shell of the baffle box comforterof FIG. 1 in an open position.

FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of the fabric shell of the baffle boxcomforter of FIG. 1, wherein the top edge and bottom edge are in openposition.

FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the fabric shell of the baffle boxcomforter of FIG. 1, wherein the top edge and bottom edge are in openposition.

FIG. 5A is a top plan view of the baffle box comforter of FIG. 1,wherein the top edge is in an open position.

FIG. 5B is a top plan view of an alternative baffle box comforteraccording to an aspect of the disclosure, with the top edge in an openposition.

FIG. 6 is a front plan view of a baffle box comforter according to anaspect of the disclosure.

FIG. 7A is a top plan view of a fabric shell of the baffle box comforterof FIG. 6.

FIG. 7B is a top plan view of an alternative fabric shell of the bafflebox comforter according to an aspect of the disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a front plan view of a baffle box comforter according to anaspect of the disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional side plan view of a section of the bafflecomforter 200 taken through line E-E of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 is cross-sectional top plan view of a fabric shell of the bafflebox comforter of FIG. 8 taken through line F-F.

FIG. 10A is an enlarged portion of FIG. 10.

FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of the fabric shell of the bafflebox comforter of FIG. 8, wherein the top edge and bottom edge are inopen position.

FIG. 12 is a top plan view of the baffle box comforter of FIG. 8 whereinthe top edge is in an open position.

FIG. 13 is a front plan view of a baffle box comforter according to anaspect of the disclosure.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the baffle box comforter of FIG. 13 inan open position.

FIG. 15 is cross-sectional side plan view of the baffle comforter ofFIG. 13 taken through line F-F of FIG. 13.

FIG. 16 is cross-sectional top plan view of a fabric shell of the bafflebox comforter taken through line G-G of FIG. 13.

FIG. 17 is a front plan view of a baffle box comforter according to anaspect of the disclosure.

FIG. 18 is cross-sectional side plan view of the baffle comforter ofFIG. 13 taken through line G-G of FIG. 13 without fill material for easeof illustration.

FIG. 19 is cross-sectional top plan view of a fabric shell of the bafflebox comforter taken through line H-H of FIG. 13 without fill materialfor ease of illustration.

FIG. 20 is a top plan view of a fabric shell of a baffle box comforterof another example embodiment, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the baffle box comforter of FIG. 20.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1-3 illustrate features of an example baffle box comforter 100according to an aspect of the disclosure. With reference first to FIG.1, the example baffle box comforter 100 includes a fabric shell 120 witha bedding fill material disposed within the fabric shell 120. The fabricshell 120 may include, for example, a first outer fabric panel or firstfabric 122, a second outer fabric panel or second fabric 124 (FIG. 2),an intermediate fabric panel or intermediate fabric 156 (FIG. 2)positioned between the first and second fabrics, baffle floors104A-104D, front baffle sidewalls 108A-L, and rear baffle sidewalls110A-L. The first and second fabrics 122, 124 may be constructed fromany known materials. These materials can include, for example, naturalor synthetic fibers, including, for example, cotton, silk, or polyesterfabrics or blends, or combinations of these materials. The first andsecond fabrics 122, 124 can be comprised of the same material ordifferent materials. The bedding fill material may be manufactured fromnatural or synthetic materials, such as, for example, down feathers,wool, silk, polyester, woven materials and the like. The size of thebaffle box comforter 100 can vary. For example, the baffle box comforter100 may be manufactured according to standard size bedding dimensions,such as the standard sizes for twin, queen, and king, or the size may becustom size.

The first and second fabrics 122, 124, as well as the intermediatefabric 156, may be secured together at their outer ends by a seam 134that joins the outer edges of the first and second fabrics 122, 124together. As shown in FIG. 1, the seam 134 extends around the outercircumference of the fabric shell 120 to form an outer perimeter 136.First and second vertical edges 126,128, as well as first and secondlateral edges 130, 132 form the outermost edges of the fabric shell 120.In this example, the outer edges of the first and second fabrics 122,124 are joined together so that the first and second fabrics 122, 124are directly adjacent one another. In other examples, the outer edges ofthe first and second fabrics may be spaced apart from one another tocreate a thicker edge around the comforter, such as by adding a gussetaround the vertical edges 126,128 and first and second lateral edges130, 132 of the fabric shell 120.

An intermediate fabric may be positioned between the first and secondfabrics 122, 124. FIG. 2, a top-plan view of the fabric shell 120 in anopen position and without filling, illustrates an example intermediatefabric 150 positioned between the first and second fabrics 122, 124. Theintermediate fabric 150 can include a front surface 154 and a rearsurface 156. The intermediate fabric 150 can generally can extend in adirection between the first vertical edge 126 and the second verticaledge 128 of the fabric shell, as well as in a direction that is parallelto the first lateral edge 130 and second lateral edge 132 of the fabricshell 120. In this example, the intermediate fabric 150 extends fullyfrom the first vertical edge 126 to a second vertical edge 128 of thefabric shell 120. In other examples, the intermediate fabric 150 mayonly extend partially between the first vertical edge 125 and the secondvertical edge 128. The intermediate fabric 150 may alternatively becomprised of a plurality of materials or fabrics joined together thateach individually extend between the first vertical edge 126 and thesecond vertical edge 128 of the fabric shell. The intermediate fabric150 can be comprised of the same or similar materials as the first andsecond fabrics 120, 122. In other examples, the intermediate fabric 150may be comprised of a material that is different than the first andsecond fabrics 120, 122. Furthermore, the intermediate fabric may be amesh or other fabric or non-fabric material that separates the first andsecond fabrics 120, 122 from one another.

The interior 152 of the fabric shell 120 may include at least twointerior portions separated by the intermediate fabric 150: a frontinterior portion 158 and a rear interior portion 160. The front interiorportion 158, as shown in FIG. 2, may extend from the front surface 154of the intermediate fabric 150 to the interior surface 123 of the firstfabric 122. The rear interior portion 160 may extend from the rearsurface 156 of the intermediate fabric 150 to the interior surface 125of the second fabric 124. In this example, the intermediate fabric 150divides the interior 152 into two equal halves. In other examples, itmay be desired that the intermediate fabric 150 be positioned within theinterior 152 such that the interior 152 is not equally divided. In stillother examples, more than one intermediate fabric may be provided sothat at least three or more interior layers are formed between the firstand second fabrics 122, 124.

Baffle floors can extend between the first and second fabrics in boththe front interior portion 158 and rear interior portion 160. Forexample, as shown in FIGS. 1-2, baffle floor 104A can extend across aplane P1 (FIG. 1) between the first and second vertical edges 126, 128,as well as in a transverse direction in the same plane P1 between thefirst and second fabrics 122, 124. In this example, floor 104A extendsbetween the interior surface 123 of the first fabric 122 and the frontsurface 154 of the intermediate fabric 150, as well as between theinterior surface 125 of the second fabric 124 and the rear surface 156of the intermediate fabric 150. The remaining baffle floors 104B and104C similarly extend in a lateral direction in a plane (not shown)parallel to P1 between the first and second vertical edges 126, 128, aswell as in a transverse direction in the same parallel plane between thefirst and second fabrics 122, 124. As illustrated in FIG. 3, aperspective view of the fabric shell 120 of comforter 200 withoutfilling material, floors 104B and 104C are shown extending between theinterior surface 123 of the first fabric 122 and the front surface 154of the intermediate fabric 150, as well as between the interior surface125 of the second fabric 124 and the rear surface 156 of theintermediate fabric 150.

The baffle floors 104A, 104B, and 104C may be spaced apart from oneanother and positioned at various points along the first and secondvertical edges 126, 128 of the fabric shell 120. The baffle floors104A-104D can create rows 106A, 106B, 106C, and 106D extending betweenthe first and second vertical edges 126, 128 within the front interiorportion 158 and rows 106E-106H within the rear interior portion 160(FIG. 4). In this example, the baffle floors 104A-104D are evenly spacedapart from one another. In other examples, the spacing between bafflefloors can be increased or decreased depending on the desired design andnumber of baffle floors. For example, providing additional baffle floorswill decrease the spacing between the baffle floors, whereas reducingthe number of baffle floors will increase the overall space betweenbaffle floors. The baffle floors 104A-104D may be constructed from avariety of materials. In one example, baffle floor 104A-104D areconstructed from a mesh material or material with openings to allow afill material to be blown therethrough during manufacture. In otherexamples, the baffle floor may be a generally solid material such as acontinuous piece of cotton material or the same material as the firstand second fabrics 222, 224.

One or more baffle sidewalls may be positioned within respective rows106A-D of the front interior portion 158, as well as within respectiverows 106E-106H of the rear interior portion 160. As shown, for example,in FIG. 2, front baffle sidewalls 108A, 108B, 108C are separated fromrear baffle sidewalls 110A, 110B, and 110C by the intermediate fabric156. Front baffle sidewalls 108A-108C are positioned within the frontinterior portion 158 and rear baffle sidewalls 110A-110C are positionedwithin the rear interior portion 160. The front baffle sidewalls108A-108C can extend from the front surface 154 of the intermediatefabric 150 toward the interior surface 123 of the first outer fabric122. The first ends 107A, 107B, 107C of the respective front bafflesidewalls 108A-C can be attached to the intermediate fabric 156 and thesecond ends 109A, 109B, 109C of the front baffle sidewalls 108A-108C,can be attached to the interior surface 123 of the first fabric 122.

Rear baffle sidewalls 110A-110C each extend from the rear surface 156 ofthe intermediate fabric 150 toward the interior surface 125 of thesecond fabric 124. The first ends 111A, 111B and 111C of the rear bafflesidewalls 110A-110C can be attached to the rear surface 156 of theintermediate fabric 150 and the second ends 113A-113C of the rear bafflesidewalls 110A-110C are attached to the interior surface of the secondfabric 124. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 3, front baffle sidewalls108D-108L have respective first ends 107D-L attached to the interiorsurface 123 of the first fabric 122 and second respective ends 109D-Lattached to the front surface 154 of the intermediate fabric 150. Asshown in FIG. 4, rear baffle sidewalls 110D-110L have respective firstends 111D-111L attached to the interior surface 125 of the second fabric124 and second ends 113D-113L attached to the rear surface 156 of theintermediate fabric 150.

The first end of one or more baffle sidewalls may be aligned with thefirst end of another baffle sidewall in an adjacent row. For example,each of the front baffle sidewalls in the front interior portion 158 canbe aligned with the first end of another front baffle sidewall in anadjacent row. As shown in FIG. 3, in row 106A, first end 107A of frontbaffle sidewall 108A may be aligned with first end 107D of front bafflesidewall 108B in row 106B. The first ends 107G and 107J of respectivefront baffle sidewalls 108G and 108J in respective rows 106C and 106Dcan be aligned with one another, as well as the first ends 107A, 107D ofbaffle sidewalls 108A and 108D. First ends 107B, 107E, 107H and 107K offront baffle sidewalls 108B, 108E, 108H, and 108K may also be alignedwith one another. Finally, respective first ends 107C, 107F, 107I, and107 L of respective baffle sidewalls 108C, 108F, 108I, and 108L may alsobe aligned with one another.

Similarly, each of the rear baffle sidewalls in the rear interiorportion can be aligned with the first end of another rear bafflesidewall in an adjacent row. As shown in FIG. 4, in row 106E, first end111A of rear baffle sidewall 110A may be aligned with first end 111D ofrear baffle sidewall 110B in row 106F. The ends 111G and 111J ofrespective rear baffle sidewalls 110G and 110J in respective rows 106Gand 106H can be aligned with one another, as well as the first ends111A, 111D of baffle sidewalls 110A and 110D. First ends 111B, 111E,111H and 111K of respective rear baffle sidewalls 110B, 110E, 110H, and110K may also be aligned with one another. Finally, respective firstends 111C, 111F, 111I, and 111L of respective baffle sidewalls 110C,110F, 1101, and 110L may also be aligned with one another.

The respective front sidewalls and rear sidewalls may be attached attheir respective ends to the fabric shell by any means, such as by beingsewn or stitched. A baffle seam can be formed along the first fabric 122where each end of the front baffle sidewalls is attached to the firstfabric and a baffle seam can also be formed along the second fabric 124where each end of the rear baffle sidewalls is attached to the secondfabric. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the alignment of frontbaffle sidewalls 108A, 108D, 108G, and 108J, are aligned with oneanother can form a continuous first front baffle seam 168 that extendslongitudinally between the first lateral edge 130 to the second lateraledge 132. Similarly, the alignment of baffle sidewalls 108B, 108E, 108H,108K with one another can form a second front baffle seam 170; andalignment of baffle sidewalls 108C, 108F, 108I, 108L with one anothercan form a third front baffle seam 172. Baffle seams can further beformed along the second fabric 124 where each end of the rear bafflesidewalls is attached to the second fabric 124. Rear baffle sidewalls,as noted above, can also be aligned with one another. The alignment ofrear baffle sidewalls 110A, 110D, 110G, 110J (FIGS. 1 and 4) along thesecond fabric 124 can form a rear baffle seam 174; the alignment of rearbaffle sidewalls 108B, 108E, 108H, 108K along the second fabric 124 canform a second rear baffle seam 176; and the alignment of rear bafflesidewalls 110C, 110F, 110I, 110L with one another along the secondfabric 124 can form a third rear baffle seam 178.

The baffle sidewalls may be formed from any materials. For instance, thebaffle sidewalls may be formed from a mesh material or a material withopenings. In alternative examples, the sidewalls may be a solidmaterial, such as a continuous cotton or polyester material. The bafflesidewalls may be formed from the same or a different material as thebaffle floors.

With reference back to FIG. 2, the front baffle sidewalls 108A-108Lextend between the first fabric 122 and the intermediate fabric 150 in adirection that is generally perpendicular to both the first fabric 122and the intermediate fabric 150. Similarly, the rear baffle sidewalls110A-110L can extend in a direction that is generally perpendicular toboth the intermediate fabric 150 and the second fabric 124. In otherexamples, the front baffle sidewalls 110A-110L may extends in adirection such that one or more of the first ends 107A-L of the frontbaffle sidewalls 108A-108L form an angle Ø_(1A), a right angle, with thefirst fabric 122 and one or more of the second ends 109A-109L of thefront baffle sidewalls 108A-108L form an angle Ø_(1B), also a rightangle, with the intermediate fabric 150. In other examples, Ø_(1A) andØ_(1B) may be less than or greater than ninety degrees.

The sidewalls in the baffle box comforter 200 can be positioned withinthe fabric shell in a staggered or alternating configuration so that thefront baffle sidewalls and the rear baffle sidewalls are not alignedwith one another. In one example configuration, front baffle sidewallscan be disposed between and spaced apart from adjacent rear bafflesidewalls and vice versa. As shown in FIG. 2, front baffle sidewalls arepositioned between each of the rear baffle sidewalls. Rear bafflesidewall 110A can be positioned between the first vertical edge 126 andfront baffle sidewall 108A; rear baffle sidewall 110B can be positionedbetween front sidewall 108A and 108B; and, rear baffle sidewall 110C canbe positioned between front baffle sidewalls 108B and 108C. Front bafflesidewalls 108D-108L disposed within the fabric shell 120 can also bestaggered relative to one or more of the remaining rear baffle sidewalls110D-110L.

Each of the remaining front baffle sidewalls positioned within the frontinterior portion 158, as shown in FIG. 1, can be offset with regard toadjacent rear baffle sidewalls in the rear interior portion. Frontbaffle sidewall 108D can be positioned between rear baffle sidewalls110D and 110E; front baffle sidewall 108E can be positioned between rearbaffle sidewalls 110E, 110F, and front baffle sidewall 108F can bepositioned between rear baffle sidewall 110F and the second verticaledge 128. Similarly, front baffle sidewall 108G can be positionedbetween rear baffle sidewalls 110G, 110H; front baffle sidewall 108H canbe positioned between rear baffle sidewalls 110H, 110I; and front bafflesidewall 108I can be positioned between rear baffle sidewall 1101 andthe second vertical edge 128. Finally, front baffle sidewall 108J isshown positioned between rear baffle sidewalls 110J, 110K; front bafflesidewall 108K is shown positioned between rear baffle sidewalls110K,110L; and front baffle sidewall 108L is shown positioned betweenrear baffle sidewall 110L and the second vertical edge 128.

The front baffle seams 168, 170, 172 and rear baffle seams 174, 176,178, which are determined by the location of the front and rear bafflesidewalls, can also be offset relative to one another so that the frontand rear baffle seams do no align with one another. For example, FIG. 1illustrates front baffle seam 168 being offset from the rear baffle seam174 by a distance X1, as well as offset from rear baffle seam 176 by adistance X2. Front baffle seam 170 may be offset from adjacent rearbaffle seam 176 by a distance X3, as well as offset from rear baffleseam 178 by a distance X4. Finally, baffle seam 172 may be offset frontthe baffle seam 178 by a distance X5. As shown, each of the distancesX1-X5 may be generally equal to one another. But in other examples, oneor more distances X1-X5 may differ. In one example, where the length Lof the comforter 200 is 98 inches and the width W is 94 inches, thedistance X1 may be 2.5 inches, but in other examples, X1 may range from0.25 to 16 inches, fall outside of the range, may be at least 0.25inches, or may be less than 0.25 inches. One or more of the remainingdistances X2-X5 can also have a length of at least 0.25 inches, as wellas a length that falls within similar ranges discussed with regard toX1. In this example, the front baffle sidewall 108A may further includea length L1 between the first fabric 122 and the intermediate fabricpanel. Similarly, the rear baffle sidewall 110A, may have a length L2between the intermediate fabric panel and the second fabric 124. L1 andL2 may each be approximately 0.5 inches, such that the depth of thecomforter 200 between the first and second panels can be approximately 1inch. In other examples, L1 and/or L2 may be greater than 0.5 inches orless than 0.5 inches. Additionally, L1 and/or L2 may range between 0.25inches and 1.50 inches. In still other examples, L1 and/or L2 may begreater than 1.50 inches.

The baffle sidewalls can also be staggered along the length of theintermediate fabric. Second ends 113A-113C of the respective rear bafflesidewalls 110A-110C in row 106E and the second ends 109A-C of the frontbaffle sidewalls 108A-C in row 106A, as shown, for example, in FIG. 2,may be attached to the intermediate fabric 150 and staggered along thelength of the intermediate fabric. The second ends of the rear bafflesidewalls 110A-110C can be spaced apart from the second ends of thefront baffle sidewalls 108A-108C along the length of the intermediatefabric 150. Every other baffle sidewall extending away from theintermediate fabric 150 can be a rear baffle sidewall and anintermediate and respective front baffle sidewall 108A-108C can extendaway from the intermediate fabric 150 at a location between each of therear baffle sidewalls. Using the first vertical wall 126 as a referencepoint, the first baffle sidewall extending away from the intermediatefabric is rear baffle sidewall 1108A, the next adjacent baffle is frontbaffle sidewall 108A, the next adjacent baffle is rear baffle sidewall110B, the next adjacent baffle is front baffle sidewall 108B, the nextadjacent baffle sidewall is rear baffle sidewall 110C, and the finalbaffle sidewall is front baffle sidewall 108C. The spacing between thefront and rear baffle sidewalls along the length of the intermediatefabric 150 can be the same distances X1-X5 as discussed above withregard to the front and rear baffle seams.

The depth of a baffle sidewall can be defined by the length of therespective sidewall between the intermediate fabric 150 and the first orsecond fabrics 122, 124. For example, referring back to FIGS. 2-3, thefront baffle sidewall 108A may have a length L1 that extends between thefront surface 154 of intermediate fabric 150 and the interior surface123 of the first fabric 122. The other front baffle sidewalls 108B-108L(FIG. 3) may also each have a length L1 defined by the length of thebaffle sidewall between the first outer fabric 122 and the intermediatefabric 156. (For ease of illustration, L1 is only shown with regard tofront baffle sidewalls 108B-108D, but the dimension L1 is similarlyobtained for each front baffle sidewall 108E-108L.) The length L1 of thefront baffle sidewalls 108A-L may be the same. In other examples, thelength L1 may vary to allow for a more contoured shape comforter.

As shown in FIG. 2, the rear baffle sidewall 110A may have a length L2that extends between the rear surface 156 of the intermediate fabric 150and the interior surface 125 of the second fabric 124. Similarly, rearbaffle sidewalls 110B-L may have lengths L2 extending between the rearsurface 156 of the intermediate fabric 150 and the interior surface 125of the second fabric 124. In this example, the lengths L2 aresubstantially the same. In other examples, one or more lengths L2 of abaffle sidewall may differ. Furthermore, the lengths L1 and L2 may begenerally equal in length. In still other examples, the length L1 of oneor more front baffle sidewalls may vary relative to the length L2 of oneor more of the rear baffle sidewalls (and vice versa).

The height of any one baffle sidewall can be determined by the lengththe baffle sidewall extends along the first fabric 1122 or the secondfabric 124. The front baffle sidewalls may have a height that generallyextends between the first and second lateral edges 130,132 of the shell120, and that is parallel to the first and second vertical edges126,128. In this example, the height of the sidewalls can be thedistance the sidewall extends between one of the baffle floors andanother baffle floor or alternatively between one of the baffle floorsand one of the outer edges 130,132 of the fabric shell. For example, asshown in FIG. 3, front baffle sidewall 108A can have a height H1 thatextends from the first lateral edge 130 to the baffle floor 104A. Theheight H1 can extend fully between the first lateral edge 130 and thebaffle floor 104A. In other examples, H1 may extend partially betweenthe first lateral edge 130 and the baffle floor 104A. The front bafflesidewalls 108B-C may also have a height that generally extends betweenthe first and second lateral edges 130,132 of the shell 120, andparallel to the first and second vertical edges 126,128. The height H1may be the same for all front baffle sidewalls 108A, 108B, and 108C orthey may be different. Front baffle sidewalls 108D, 108E, and 108F inrow 106B each have a height H2 that extends longitudinally between thebaffle floors 104A and 104B. Front baffle sidewalls 108G, 108H, and 1081each have a height H3 that extends between baffle floor 104B and bafflefloor 104C. Baffle sidewalls 108J, 108K, and 108L each have a height H4that extends between baffle floor 104C and second lateral edge 132.

The individual respective heights of the sidewall baffles in aparticular row 106A, B, C, or D may be the same or they may differ. Forexample, the heights H3 of baffle sidewalls 108D-F relative to oneanother may be the same; the heights H4 of baffle sidewalls 108G-Irelative to one another may all be the same; and the heights H4 ofbaffle sidewalls 108J-L relative to one another may be the same. Inother examples, the heights of the baffle sidewalls in any one row maydiffer. For example, H1 of the front baffle sidewalls can differ fromheight H1 of the front baffle sidewall 108B. Additionally, the heightsof the sidewalls in different rows may be the same or differ. Forexample, heights H2 of one or more baffle sidewalls in row 106B andheights H4 of one or more baffle sidewalls in row 106D may have the samelength, but heights H3 of baffle sidewalls in row 106C may differ.Similarly, the height H1 (discussed above) of baffle sidewalls in row106A may have a length that is greater than or less than one or moreheights H2, H3 or H4 of baffle sidewalls in rows 106B-D. In the sameexample where the length L of the comforter is 98 inches and the width Wof the comforter is 94 inches, the height H1 of the front bafflesidewall 108A may be 24.5 inches, but in other examples, the height H1may be greater than 24.5 inches or less than 24.5 inches.

The heights of the rear sidewalls may be similar to the front sidewalls.The rear baffle sidewalls 110A, 110B, and 110C, shown in FIG. 4, canhave a height H6 that extends from the first lateral edge 130 to thebaffle floor 104A. Rear baffle sidewalls 110D, 110E, and 110F extendlongitudinally between baffle floor 104 a and 104 b, and have a heightH2 defined by the length of the rear baffle sidewalls 110D-110F betweenthe baffle floor 104A and 104B. Similarly, rear baffle sidewalls 110G,110H, and 1101 extend between baffle floor 104B and baffle floor 104Cand have a height H7 defined by the length the rear baffle sidewalls110G-I extend between the baffle floor 104B and 104D. Rear bafflesidewalls 110J,110K,11L extend between floor 104C and second lateraledge 132 and have a height H8 defined by the length the rear bafflesidewalls 110J-110L extends between the floor 104C and second lateraledge 132. As with regard to the height H1 of the baffle sidewalls in thefront interior portion 158, the heights of the rear baffle sidewalls inthe rear interior portion 160 may be the same for all sidewalls 110A-Lor they may be different. The heights may further vary relative to oneanother as discussed with regard to the heights H1-H4 of the frontbaffle sidewalls. In the example shown, the heights H1 and H2 are shownto be generally equal in size. In other examples, the heights (H1-H4) ofone or more front baffle sidewalls 108A-108L may vary relative to theheights (H5-H8) of the rear baffle sidewalls 110A-110L. In the sameexample where the length L of the comforter is 98 inches and the width Wof the comforter is 94 inches, the height H1 of the rear baffle sidewall110A may be 24.5 inches, but in other examples, the height H1 may begreater than 24.5 inches or less than 24.5 inches.

The number of baffle sidewalls present in each row of the front interiorportion may be equal to the number of baffle sidewalls present in eachrow of the rear interior portion. In this example, at least three frontbaffle sidewalls are positioned within each row 106A-106D of the frontinterior portion 158 (FIGS. 1 and 3) and three baffle sidewalls arepositioned within each rows 106E-106H of the rear interior portion 160.Alternatively, the number of baffle sidewalls relative to the frontbaffle sidewalls can vary. There may be additional baffle sidewalls inboth the front and rear interior portions 158,160. There may be morebaffle sidewalls in the front interior portion 158 relative to the rearinterior portion 160 and vice versa. For example, the rear interiorportion 160 may include one or more additional baffle sidewalls, such asadditional sidewall positioned between the rear sidewall 110C and secondvertical edge 128. Furthermore, the number of baffle sidewalls in one ofthe rows 106A-106H can vary with respect to one or more other rows.

A plurality of chambers can be formed in each of the rows 106A-D in thefront interior portion 158, as well as in each of the rows 106E-H in therear interior portion 160. As shown in FIG. 3, a plurality of chambers115A-115L are formed in the front interior portion 158 and as shown inFIG. 4, a plurality of chambers 117A-117L are formed in the rearinterior portion 160. The boundaries of the plurality of chambers can beformed by the baffle sidewalls, the baffle floors, the intermediatefabric, the first and second lateral edges 130,132, and the first andsecond vertical edges 126,128. For example, the intermediate fabric 150can form a first front wall for each of the respective chambers115A-115P and the opposed first fabric 122 forms a second opposed wall.Similarly, the intermediate fabric 150 forms a first front wall of therespective chambers 117A-117C and the second fabric 124 forms a secondopposed wall. The top edges of the chambers 115A-115D and 117A-117D canbe defined by the first lateral edge 130 of the shell 120 and the bottomedges of the chambers 115A-115D and 117A-117D are defined by floor 104A.

The lateral edges of the plurality of chambers can be formed by at leastone of the front and rear baffle sidewalls. Lateral edges of chambers115A-115L provided between the first fabric 122 and the intermediatefabric 150 can be defined by at least one of the front baffle sidewalls,and the lateral edges of the chambers 117A-117L provided between thesecond fabric 124 and the intermediate fabric 150 can be defined by atleast one of the rear baffle sidewalls. As shown in row 106A and FIG. 2,the lateral edges of chamber 115A are defined by the vertical edge 126of the shell 120 and the front baffle sidewall 108A; the lateral edgesof the chamber 115B are defined by front baffle sidewalls 109A and 109B;the lateral edges of the chamber 115C are defined by front bafflesidewalls 109B and 109C; and the lateral edges of the chamber 115D aredefined by front baffle sidewall 108C and the second vertical edge 128.Similarly, in row 106E of the rear interior portion 160, the lateraledges of the chambers 117A, 117B, 117C, and 117D are defined by the rearbaffle sidewalls. The lateral edges of chamber 117A are defined by thefirst vertical edge 126 and the rear baffle sidewall 110A; the lateraledges of chamber 117B are defined by rear baffle sidewalls 110A and110B; the lateral edges of chamber 117C can be defined by rear bafflesidewalls 110B and 110C; and, the lateral edges of the chamber 117D canbe defined by rear baffle sidewalls 110C and the second vertical edge126 of the shell 120.

Similar chambers can be formed throughout each of the rows 106B-H in thefront and rear interior portions 158,160 of the fabric shell 120. Asshown in FIG. 3, chambers 115E-H are formed within row 106B of the frontinterior portion 158 of the fabric shell 120; chambers 115I-115L areformed within row 106C; and chambers 115M-115P are formed within row106D. As shown in FIG. 4, chambers 117E-H can be formed within row 106Fof the front interior portion 158 of the fabric shell 120; chambers117I-117L can be formed within row 106G; and chambers 117M-117P can beformed within row 106H. The chambers in the fabric shell can begenerally rectangular in shape, but in other examples, the chambers cantake on other desired shapes, such as a square. The number of chamberscan increase or decrease depending on the number of desired chambers.For example, greater or fewer baffle sidewalls can be implemented toincrease or decrease the number of chambers. Similarly, additional orfewer baffle floor can be used to vary the number of chambers.

The lateral edges of the chambers 115A-115P in the front interiorportion 158 of the fabric shell 120 can be offset relative to thelateral edges of the chambers 117A-117P in the rear interior portion 160of the fabric shell 120. As shown, for example, in FIGS. 2-3, thechambers 115A-115D in the front interior portion 158 are alternating oroffset relative to the chambers 117A-117D in the rear interior portion160. Since the rear baffle sidewalls are offset relative to the frontbaffle sidewalls, the rear baffle sidewalls of the chambers 117A, 117B,117C and 117D in the rear interior portion 160 are not aligned with orpositioned directly behind the front baffle sidewalls of the chambers115A, 115B, 115C, and 115D in the front interior portion 158. Thisallows the chambers 117B and 117C of the rear interior portion to beoffset relative to chambers 115B and 115C in the front interior portion158.

The remaining chambers 115E-115O in each of respective rows 106B-106D ofthe front interior portion can also be offset relative to the chambers117E-117O in rows 106B-106D of the rear interior portion 160.Alternatively, in other examples, one or more chambers in a particularrow 106A-106H may be offset or staggered whereas other rows are not. Forexample, the baffle sidewalls of rows 106A and 106C may include chambersin the front interior portion 158 that are aligned with the chambers inthe rear interior portion 160, whereas the chambers of rows 106B and106D may be staggered and not aligned with one another. One or more rowsin the front interior portion 158 may instead include front bafflesidewalls that are aligned with rear baffle sidewalls in the counterpartrear interior portion 160, such as in traditional baffle box comforters.In still other examples, only one row of alternating baffle sidewallsmay be used and the remaining baffle sidewalls in the other rows of thecomforter may be aligned.

Floor openings can be provided in each of the chambers to allow for thefill material to reach all areas and chambers of the comforter. Openings182, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, can be provided within each of thefloors 104A, 104B, 104C, 104D adjacent the front sidewalls 108A-L andthe rear sidewalls 110A-L. With reference first to FIG. 2, openings 182are disposed within the floor 104A of each chamber 115A-115D in thefront interior portion 158 and openings 182 are disposed within thefloor 104A of each chamber 117A-D in the rear interior portion 160. Theopenings 182 may be positioned adjacent each of the baffle sidewalls andextend between the first fabric 122 and the intermediate fabric 150. Asshown, chamber 115A includes an opening 182 adjacent the front bafflesidewall 108A; chamber 115B includes an opening 182 adjacent the frontbaffle sidewall 108B; chamber 115C includes an opening 182 adjacent thefront baffle sidewall 108C; and chamber 115D includes an opening 182that is also adjacent the front baffle sidewall 108C. Similarly,openings in the rear interior chamber 160 may extend between the secondfabric 124 and the intermediate fabric 150. Chamber 117A in the rearinterior portion 160 includes an opening 182 adjacent the rear bafflesidewall 110A; chamber 117B includes an opening 182 adjacent the rearbaffle sidewall 110B; chamber 117C includes an opening 182 adjacent therear baffle sidewall 110C; and chamber 117D includes an opening 182 thatis also adjacent the rear baffle sidewall 110C.

The openings can additionally or alternatively be positioned elsewherewithin the floor of the chamber, such as spaced further away from thebaffle sidewalls or in the middle of a chamber. Some or all of theopenings 182 may not fully extend between the intermediate fabric andthe first fabric 122 or may not fully extend between the intermediatefabric 150 and the second fabric 124. Further, the openings 182 may beflapped openings where a flap of material is attached to the bafflesidewall or baffle floor and can be opened or closed to allow forfilling of the respective chambers.

As shown in FIG. 3, openings 182 may also be provided in the remainingchambers 115E-115P of the front interior portion 158. The openings ineach of the rows can be aligned with openings 182 present in eachadjacent row in the front interior portion 158. With reference to FIG.4, openings 182 can also be provided in the chambers 117E-P of the rearinterior portion 160. Each of the openings 182 in row 106A can bealigned with the openings 182 present in each adjacent row in the rearinterior portion 160.

Fill material can be introduced into the fabric shell 120 through eachof the openings in the chambers. In one example, a filling machine canintroduce fill material into the fabric shell 120 row-by-row in thefront interior portion 158 and row-by-row rear interior portion 160.Nozzles of a filling machine (not shown) may extend through the openings182 adjacent each of the baffle sidewalls in the front interior portion158 and rear interior portion 160. The filling machine may first fillthe chambers 115M-P in row 106 D, as well as chambers 117M-P in row106H. The nozzles in the front interior portion 158 can then beretracted into row 106C, where each of chambers 115I-L is filled withfill material. The nozzles in the rear interior portion 160 can besimultaneously or subsequently retracted into row 106G, where each ofchambers 117I-L is filled. When row 106C is completed, the nozzles canbe retracted into row 106B and each of the chambers 115E-H can befilled. Each of the chambers 117D-H can be filled when the nozzles inthe rear interior portion 160 are positioned within row 106F. Finally,the nozzles can be drawn into row 115A and each of chambers 115A-115Dcan be filled. Similarly, each of the chambers 117A-117D can be filledin row 117A. Openings may alternatively or additionally be present ineach of the baffle sidewalls to allow the nozzles of a filling machineto extend through the openings in the baffle sidewalls. This can allowfor column-by-column filling in a similar manner.

The fill material in the front interior chamber 158 may be the same ordifferent that the fill material in the rear interior chamber 160. Forexample, as shown in FIG. 5A, a top plan view of the baffle boxcomforter 200 open at one end and closed at the other, the fill material180 is disposed within the front interior portion 158 and fill material181 is disposed within the rear interior portion 160. Alternatively, asshown in FIG. 5B, the fill material 180′ in the front interior chamber158′ is different than the fill material 181′ in the rear interiorchamber 160′.

With reference to FIG. 5A, the staggered arrangement of the bafflesidewalls, as well as the intermediate fabric, can help to reduce coldspots. Fill material F positioned in the chambers 117A-D of the rearinterior portion 160 can be positioned behind each of the front bafflesidewalls 110A-110C. Potential cold seeping through the first fabric 122and baffle sidewall 110A in the front interior portion 158 willencounter both the intermediate fabric 150, as well as the fill materialin chamber 117B, which is positioned directly behind baffle sidewall110A. Potential cold seeping through the second fabric 124 and rearbaffle sidewall 110A in the rear interior portion 160 will encounter theintermediate sidewall 150, as well as the fill material in chamber 115Aof the front interior portion 158. This arrangement is the same for eachof the staggered baffle sidewalls in the front interior portion 158 andthe rear interior portion 160. Providing the intermediate fabric 150 andthe staggered baffle sidewalls throughout the fabric shell 120 cantherefore help to reduce the presence of cold spots in the baffle boxcomforter.

In an alternative example, as shown in FIG. 5B, a first fill material F1may be used in the front portion and a second fill material F2 may beprovided in a second portion. The first and second fill materials may bedifferent fill materials.

FIGS. 6-7A present an alternative example baffle comforter 100′, wheresimilar reference numerals are used to identify similar elements. Inthis example, the baffle comforter 100′ includes a fabric shell 120′with first and second outer fabrics 122′124′ and an intermediate fabric150′ disposed between the first and second outer fabrics 122′124′. As inthe previous example, the respective first ends 107A′-107L′ of the frontbaffle sidewalls 108A-108D may be offset with respect to the respectivefirst ends 111A′-111L′ of the rear baffle sidewalls 110A′-110L′. Thisexample differs, however, with regard to the arrangement of the bafflesidewalls. In particular, as shown in FIG. 7A, the second ends109A′-109CC′ of the front baffle sidewalls 108A′-C′ may instead bealigned with the respective second ends 113A′-113C′ of the rear bafflesidewalls 110A′-110C′ so that the second ends 109A′-109C′ of the frontbaffle sidewalls 108A′-108C′ are not spaced apart from the rear bafflesidewalls 110A′-110C′. In still another alternative example, as shown inFIG. 7B, individual baffle sidewalls 108A″, 108B″, and 108C″ may extenddirectly through the intermediate fabric 150″. The first end 107A″ ofthe baffle sidewall 108A″ may be attached to the first fabric 122″ andthe second end 109A″ of the baffle sidewall 108″ may be attached to thesecond fabric 124″.

With reference to FIGS. 8-13, where similar reference numerals are usedto identify similar features, an alternative baffle box comforter 200 isshown. The example baffle box comforter 200 is similar to the previousexamples, such as shown in FIGS. 1-7A, but includes an alternativebaffle sidewall configuration. Baffle box comforter 200 includes afabric shell 220 filled with a bedding or fill material. The fabricshell 220 may include a first fabric 222, a second fabric 224 (FIG. 9),baffle floors 204A, 204B, 204C, and 204D, and baffle sidewalls 208A-L.As shown in FIG. 8, first and second vertical edges 226, 228, as well asfirst and second lateral edges 230, 232 of the fabric shell 220 form theoutermost edges of the fabric shell 220 and comforter 200. Thecomponents of the fabric shell 220, including first and second fabrics220, 224, the front baffle sidewalls 208A-208L, the baffle floors204A-204C, and the fill material, may be comprised of the same materialspreviously discussed herein.

Baffle floors 204A-204D are shown spaced apart from one another. Forexample, as shown in FIG. 9, a cross sectional view taken along line D-Dof FIG. 8, baffle floors 204A-204D are shown extending between the firstfabric 222 and second fabric 224. As shown, first end 201A of bafflefloor 204A is attached to a first portion P1 of the first fabric 222.The second end 205A of the baffle floor 204A is attached to a secondportion P2 of the second fabric 224. As shown, portion P1, where therespective first end 201A is attached to the first fabric 220, and theportion P2, where the respective second end 205A is attached to thesecond fabric 224, are aligned with one another and extend along a samehorizontal plane H. The baffle floors 204A may further extend at anangle Ø_(2A) relative to the first fabric 222, as well as an angleØ_(2B) relative to the second fabric 224. The baffle floor may have awidth F extending between the first fabric 222 and second fabric 224. Inan example where the comforter has a length L of 98 inches and a width Wof 94 inches, the width F of the baffle floor may be 1 inch. Inalternative examples, the width F may range from 0.50 inches to 3inches. In still other examples, the width F may be less than 0.50inches or greater than 3 inches.

Each of the remaining baffle floors 204B-D may also be similarlyattached to the first and second fabrics 222, 224, such that the firstends 201B, 201C, and 291D are aligned with the second ends 205B, 205C,and 205D and extend along planes parallel to horizontal plane H. Thebaffle floors 204B-D may further extend at an angle Ø_(2A) relative tothe first fabric 222, as well as an angle Ø_(2B) relative to the secondfabric 224.

In this example, angles Ø_(2A) and Ø_(2B) are right angles or ninetydegree angles, but in other examples, the angles may differ. Forexample, one or both ends of one or more baffle floors 204A-204C mayextend at an angle greater than or less than ninety degrees, such thatone or more baffle floors are not perpendicular to the first and secondfabrics 222, 224. In still other examples, the angles Ø_(2A) of a firstend and the angle Ø_(2B) of the second end of one baffle floor maydiffer relative to the angles of another floor or relative to eachother.

Baffle sidewalls 208A-208L extend longitudinally along the verticallength L of the first fabric 222 and the second fabric 224. As shown inFIG. 8, the baffle sidewalls 208A-208L can intersect the baffle floors204A-204C so as to form individual chambers defined by the bafflesidewalls 208A-208L and baffle floors 204A-204C. Rows 206A-206D are alsoformed by the baffle floors 204A-204D. The first and second fabrics 222,224 may be secured together at their outermost ends by a seam 234 thatjoins each of the edges of the first and second fabrics 222,224together. As shown, the seam 234 extends around the outer circumferenceof the fabric shell 220 to form an outer perimeter 236. In this example,floor 204D coincides with the seam 236 extending along the secondlateral edge 232 of the comforter 200, but in other examples, floor 204Dcan be omitted such that the second lateral edge 232 acts as the floorwhen the first and second fabrics 222, 224 are sewn together. In analternative example, the floor 204 can be spaced apart from the secondlateral edge 232 so as to create a space between the second lateral edge232 and floor 204.

FIG. 10 illustrates a top-plan view of the fabric shell 220 of thebaffle box comforter 200 in an open position taken through line E-E ofFIG. 8. For ease of illustration, fill material has been removed. Incontrast to the prior examples, baffle box comforter 200 does notinclude an intermediate fabric. Instead, as shown, each of the bafflesidewalls, including baffle sidewalls 208A-208C, can extend between thefirst fabric 222 and second fabric 224. In this example, the bafflesidewalls 208A-208C are shown extending the entire or full distancebetween the first and second fabrics 222, 224, but in other examples,one or more of the baffle sidewalls 208A-208L may only partially extendbetween the first and second fabrics 222, 224. First ends 207A-207C ofthe sidewalls 208A-208C may be attached to the interior surface 223 ofthe first fabric 222 and second ends of the sidewalls 208A-208C areattached to the interior surface 225 of the second fabric 224.Similarly, as shown in FIG. 11, a perspective view of the fabric shell220 of the comforter 220 without fill, first ends 207D-L of theremaining sidewalls 208D-208L are attached to the interior surface 223of the first fabric 224. Second ends 209D-L of the sidewalls 208D-208Lare attached to the interior surface 225 of the second fabric 224. FIG.10A shows an enlarged section of FIG. 10. For ease of illustration andto focus on the features of the baffle sidewalls, the openings in thebaffle floor are not shown in this enlarged view. In the example wherethe baffle box comforter has a length L of 98 inches, and a width W of94 inches, the length or distance D of the baffle sidewalls 208A-208Lmay be 2.75 inches, but in other examples, D may range between 1 inchand 4 inches. Day alternatively be at least 1 inch; greater than 1 inch;greater than 4 inches; or D may be less than 1 inch.

The first ends and second ends of the baffle sidewalls may be offsetfrom one another, such that the first and second ends do not align withone another. As shown, for example, in FIG. 10, first end 207C of bafflesidewall 208C is attached to the first fabric 222 at a point or portionP3 that is laterally offset along the portion P4 where the second end209C is attached to the second fabric 224. The lateral offset can be ina direction that is between the first vertical edge 226 and the secondvertical edge 228 of the shell 220. The first end 207C and second end209C therefore do not extend along a same plane I that extendsperpendicular to the first and second fabrics 222, 224. The first end207C of baffle sidewall 208C may be offset a distance X5 away from thesecond end 209C of the baffle sidewall 208C. In the example where thelength L of the comforter 200 is 98 inches and the width W is 94 inches,the distance X5 may be 2.5 inches, but in other examples, X5 may rangefrom 0.25 to 6 inches; X5 may be at least 0.25 inches; X5 may be greaterthan 0.25 inches; X5 may be less than 0.25 inches; or X5 may falloutside of the range.

Each of the baffle sidewalls 208A-208B, as well as 208D-208L can includerespective first ends 207A-207B and 207D-207L also have a points ofattachment P3 to the first fabric 222 and are laterally offset apredetermined distance relative to the point of attachment P4 to thesecond fabric for the respective second ends 209A-209B and 209D-209L.For instance, as shown in FIG. 8, first end 207B of baffle sidewall 208Bmay be offset relative to the second end 209B by a distance X3, as wellas offset relative to the second end 209C of directly adjacent bafflewall 208C by a distance X4. First end 207A can be offset relative to thesecond end 209A by a distance X1 and offset relative to the second end209B of directly adjacent baffle wall 208B by a distance X2. Thedistances or lengths X1, X2, X3, X4 may be a distance that is the sameor similar to X5. In alternative examples, however, one or more of thelengths X1-X5 may differ from one another. Each of the first and secondends of the remaining sidewalls 208D-208L in each of rows 206B, 206C,and 206D may be similarly positioned, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 11. Insome examples, instead of selecting a certain pre-set displacementbetween the first and second ends of the baffle sidewalls, the firstends of the baffle sidewalls may be attached to the first fabric 220 sothat the baffle sidewalls are evenly spaced across the width W of thecomforter. The second ends of the baffle sidewalls may be similarlypositioned so that they are also equally spaced across the width W ofthe comforter; are evenly spaced away from one another, or spaced apartfrom one another in differing amounts. In still other examples, thecomforter 200 may include baffle sidewalls that have ends displacedrelative to one another, as well as baffle sidewalls that are no may bedisplaced whereas the ends of other baffle walls are not.

Baffle sidewall 208C can further extend at an angle Ø₃ relative to theinterior surface 223 of the first fabric 222 and the second end. Withreference back to FIG. 10, as well as the enlarged view of FIG. 10A, anangle Ø_(3A) is formed by the baffle sidewall where the baffle sidewallis joined to the first fabric panel 222 may be an acute angle that isless than 90 degrees. In some examples, Ø_(3A) can range from 1 to 90degrees. In other examples, Ø_(3A) may be greater than 90 degrees;Ø_(3A) may be less than 90 degrees; or Ø_(3A) may be less than 1 degree.Similarly, Ø_(3B) may be an acute angle that is complementary to Ø_(3A),such that the combination of Ø_(3A) and Ø_(3B) add up to ninety degrees.It is to be appreciated that the angles Ø_(3A) and Ø_(3B) can bedependent upon the amount of fill present in the comforter 200 andmovement of the first fabric 222 and the second fabric 224. In thisregard, angles Ø_(3A) and Ø_(3B) can vary after the first and secondends of the sidewalls are fixed to the respective first and secondfabric panels 222, 224. Further, each of the baffle sidewalls 208D-208Lmay also be positioned at acute angles relative to the first and secondbaffle sidewalls, as well as relative to the first and second ends ofthe baffle sidewalls 208D-208L. In this example, each of the bafflesidewalls extend away from the first baffle sidewall at angles that areequal to one another, but in other examples, one or more of the bafflesidewalls 208A-208L may extend at angles that differ from one another.

The first end of one or more front baffle sidewalls may be aligned withthe first end of another front baffle sidewall in an adjacent row or arow this directly below or directly above the baffle sidewall. Forexample, as shown in FIG. 11, in row 206A, first end 207A of frontbaffle sidewall 208A, which extends between first floor 204A and the topedge 223, may be aligned with first end 207D of front baffle sidewall208B in row 206B. First end 207D may similarly extend between the firstand second floors 204A, 204B. Similarly, the ends 207G and 207J ofrespective front baffle sidewalls 208G and 208J in respective rows 206Cand 206D may be aligned with one another, as well as the first ends207A, 207D of baffle sidewalls 208A and 208D. Respective ends 207B,207E, 207H and 207K of respective front baffle sidewalls 208B, 208E,208H, and 208K may also be aligned with one another. Finally, respectivefirst ends 207C, 207F, 207I, and 207 L of respective baffle sidewalls208C, 208F, 208I, and 208L may also be aligned with one another. Inother examples, one or more of the baffle sidewalls in one row may bespaced apart from the baffle sidewall in the directly adjacent sidewall,such that one or more baffle sidewalls in the two adjacent rows are notaligned with one another and do not form a continuous baffle sidewall.

Baffle seams may be formed along the first fabric where the first endsof the baffle sidewalls are attached to the first fabric. In thisexample where the ends of the front baffle sidewalls are aligned withone another, baffle seams can extend continuously between the firstlateral edge 223 and the second lateral edge 232 of the fabric shell120. A first baffle seam 268 may be formed along the first fabric 222where the first ends 207A, 208D, 208G, 208J of the respective frontbaffle sidewalls 208A, 208D, 208G, and 208J are attached to the firstfabric 222. A second baffle seam 270 may be formed along the firstfabric 222 where the aligned first ends 207B, 207E, 207H, and 207K ofthe front baffle sidewalls 208B, 208E, 208H and 208K are attached to thefirst fabric 222. Similarly, a third baffle seam 272 may be formed alongthe first fabric 222 where the first ends 207C, 207F, 207I, and 207L areattached to the first fabric 222.

Baffle seams may also be formed along the second fabric 224 where thesecond ends of the baffle sidewalls are attached to the second fabric224. Baffle seam 274 may be formed along the second fabric 224 where thesecond ends 209A, 209D, 209G, 209J are attached to the second fabric224. A baffle seam 276 may be formed along the second fabric 224 wherethe second ends 209B, 209E, 209H, 209 k are attached to the secondfabric 224. A baffle seam 276 may be formed along the second fabric 224where the second ends 209B, 209E, 209H, 209K are attached to the secondfabric 224. A baffle seam 278 may be formed along the second fabric 224where the second ends 209C, 209F, 2091, 209L are attached to the secondfabric 224.

The baffle seams along the first fabric may be offset or staggeredrelative to the baffle seams along the second fabric. As shown in FIG.8, front baffle seam 268 at the first fabric 222 is offset relative tothe rear baffle seam 274 at the second fabric 224 by a distance X1, aswell as offset relative to rear baffle seam 276 by a distance X2. Frontbaffle seam 270 can be offset relative to rear baffle seam 276 by adistance X3, as well as offset relative to rear baffle seam 278 by adistance X4. Front baffle seam 272 can be offset relative to the rearbaffle seam 278 by a distance X5.

It is to be appreciated that in other examples, instead of a pluralityof baffle sidewalls forming a continuous baffle seam, a singlecontinuous baffle sidewall can replace he plurality of sidewalls. Thesingle continuous baffle sidewall may extend fully between the firstlateral edge 230 and the second lateral edge 232 and intersect each ofthe floors 204A-L. The second lateral edge may, for example, includeopenings that accommodate each of the floors 204A-L. This can simplifythe manufacturing process by requiring only three elongated sidewalls,as opposed to a plurality of sidewalls.

Floor openings can be provided in each of the chambers to allow for thefill material to reach all areas and chambers of the comforter. Openings282, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, can be provided within each of thefloors 204A, 204B, 204C and 204D and adjacent each of the respectivesidewalls 208A-L. For instance, at least one opening 282 may be disposedwithin the floor 204A of each chamber 215A-215D. The openings 282 may bepositioned adjacent each of the baffle sidewalls and extend fullybetween the first fabric 222 and the intermediate fabric 250. As shown,chamber 215A includes an opening 282 adjacent the baffle sidewall 208A;chamber 215B includes an opening 282 adjacent the baffle sidewall 208B;chamber 215C includes an opening 282 adjacent the baffle sidewall 208C;and chamber 215D includes an opening 282 that is also adjacent thebaffle sidewall 208C. In other examples, the openings may be positionedelsewhere within the floor of the chamber, such as further away from thebaffle sidewalls. Additionally, the openings may not fully extendbetween the intermediate fabric and the first fabric 122 or between theintermediate fabric 150 and the second fabric 124. Further, the openingsmay be flapped openings where a same or different material comprisingthe respective floors is attached to the sidewall and covers theopenings 182. The flaps can be opened or closed to allow for filling ofthe respective chambers. Although not required, the openings 182 in eachrow may be aligned with the openings 182 in the directly adjacent row.

As in the previous example, the offset first and second ends of thebaffle sidewalls can help to minimize cold spots. Fill material can beprovided behind each of the baffle seams. For example, as shown in FIG.12, a top plan viewing showing the comforter with fill, any cold seepingthrough the first fabric 222 at any of the front seams 268, 270, 272will encounter fill material, as well as at the intersection of thefront seams 268, 270, 272 with the respective floors 204A, 204B, and204C. Similarly, cold seeping through the second fabric 224 at any ofthe rear seams 274, 276, and 278 will encounter fill material in thechambers.

FIGS. 13-15 illustrate another alternative embodiment according toaspects of the present disclosure. This example is otherwise identicalto the embodiment of FIGS. 8-12, except that in addition to the bafflesidewalls being offset from one another, the baffle floors are alsooffset from one another. Since the features and discussion of baffle boxcomforter 200 in FIGS. 8-11, including alternative examples, are equallyapplicable here (and vice versa), the discussion of baffle box comforter300 will focus on the features of the baffle floors 304A-304C.

Baffle box comforter 300 can include a fabric shell 220′ filled with abedding material. The fabric shell 220′ can be an outer shell that holdsthe bedding or fill material. The fabric shell 220′ may include a firstfabric 222′, a second fabric 224′ (FIG. 14), baffle floors 304A, 304B,304C, and 304D, and baffle sidewalls 208A′-L′. As shown in FIG. 13,first and second vertical edges 226′, 228′, as well as first and secondlateral edges 230′, 232′ of the fabric shell 220′ form the outermostedges of the fabric shell 220′ and comforter 300. The components of thefabric shell 220′, including the front baffle sidewalls 208A′-208L′,baffle floors 304A-304D, and first and second fabrics 220′,224′, as wellas the fill material, may be comprised of the same materials discussedherein. The first and second fabrics 222′, 224′ may be secured togetherat their outermost ends by a seam 234′ that joins each of the edges ofthe first and second fabrics 222′, 224′ together. As shown, the seam234′ extends around the outer circumference of the fabric shell 220′ toform an outer perimeter 236′.

Baffle floors 304A-304D may be spaced apart from one another, as shownin FIG. 14. Each of the baffle floors 304A-304D can extend between thefirst and second vertical edges 226′, 228′, as well as the first andsecond lateral edges 230′, 232′ to create horizontal rows 206A′, 206B′,206C′, 206D′. In this example, the baffle floors 304A-304C are evenlyspaced apart from one another, but in other examples, one or more of thebaffle floors 304A-304D may be closer to or further away from thedirectly adjacent baffle floor.

Baffle floors 304A-304D intersect each of the baffle sidewalls208A′-208L′ that extend longitudinally along the vertical length of thefirst fabric 222′ and the second fabric 224′ and between the firstlateral edge 230′ and second lateral edge 232′. Individual chambers areformed and defined by the intersection of the baffle sidewalls208A′-208L′ and baffle floors 304A-304C. For instance, as shown in thefront perspective view of FIG. 14, chamber 215A′ may be formed in thefirst row 206A′. Similarly, chambers 215B′-215C′ may be formed in firstrow 206A′. The bottom or base B of each of the chambers 215A′-215D′ maybe defined by floor 304A and the top T of each of the chambers will bedefined by the horizontal edge 230′ of the shell 220′, when the fabricshell is closed at its ends. At least one of the walls of each of thechambers 215A′-215D′ can be defined by one of the baffle sidewalls208A′-208C. Chambers 215D′-215F′ may be formed in row 206B′. The base Bof each of the chambers 215D′-215F′ will be defined by baffle floor304B, whereas the ceiling or top T of chambers 215D′-215F′ will bedefined by the directly adjacent baffle floor 304A. At least one of thesides of the chambers can be defined by baffle sidewalls 208D′-208F′.Chambers 215H′-215K′ extend in row 206C and each include a base Bdefined by baffle floor 304C and a top T defined by baffle floor 304B.Finally, chambers 215L′-215O′ are positioned within row 206D and includebases B that are defined by the baffle floor 304D a top T defined bybaffle floor 304C.

The baffle floors are shown in this example as a single continuousbaffle floor. For instance, baffle floor 304A is a continuous materialextending linearly between the first and second vertical edges 222′,236′, as well as between the first and second fabrics 222′, 224.′ Bafflefloors 304B-304D can be arranged in the same way. In other examples, aplurality of baffle floors may be present in each row, such that thebase B of each chamber may instead be comprised of a separate bafflefloor from the baffle floor in the directly adjacent chamber in the samerow. The baffle floors in any given row may be aligned with one anotherto form a continuous seam extending between the first and secondvertical edges 224′, 226′. In other examples, the baffle floors in agiven row may not be aligned with one another. In such examples, thebaffle floor in one chamber can be spaced apart from the laterallyadjacent baffle floor in the directly adjacent chamber or a chamber inthe same row.

As shown in FIG. 15, a cross sectional view taken along line F-F of FIG.13, baffle floors 304A-304C are shown extending between the first fabric222′ and second fabric 224′. The first end 301A of the baffle floor 304Acan extend along the first fabric 222′ and forms a front seam 303A (FIG.13) that extends horizontally or laterally between the first and secondvertical edges 226′, 228′. The second end 305A of the baffle floor 304Aextends along a horizontal length of the second fabric 224′ and forms arear seam 319A. Similarly, the respective first ends 301B, 301C, 301D ofthe baffle floors 304B-D extend along a horizontal length of the firstfabric 222′ and form respective seams 303B, 303C, and 303D (FIG. 13).Seam 303D can also coincide with the seam of the first and secondfabrics 222′, 224′. Additionally, each of the respective second ends305B-305D of the baffle floors 304B-304C also extend along the secondfabric 224′ and form respective rear seams 319B-319C.

The first ends and the second ends of the baffle floors may be offsetfrom one another. As shown, for example, in FIG. 15, the first end 301Aof baffle floor 304A is vertically offset from the second end 305A ofthe baffle floor 304A, such that the first and second ends do not extendalong a same plane J that extends perpendicular to the first and secondfabrics 222′,224′. For instance, the portion P5 where the first end 301Aof the baffle floor 304A is attached to the first fabric may be offset adistance Y1 away from the portion P6 where the second end 305A of thebaffle floor 304A is attached to the second fabric. In one example,where the length L of the comforter is 98 inches and the width of thecomforter is 94 inches, the distance Y1 may be 2.5 inches, but in otherexamples, Y1 may range from 0.25 to 16 inches; Y1 may be at least 0.25inches; Y1 may be less than 0.25 inches; or Y1 may be greater than 16inches. The baffle floor 304A can further slope an angle Ø_(4A) from thefirst end 301A of the baffle floor 304A toward the second end 305A ofthe baffle floor 304A. The angle Ø_(4A) may be an acute angle that isless than 90 degrees. In some examples, Ø_(4A) can range from 1 to 90degrees; Ø4A may be less than 1 degree; Ø_(4A) may be at least 1 degree;or Ø_(4A) may be greater than 90 degrees. As shown, each of theremaining baffle floors 304B-D may include respective first ends301B-301D that are offset relative to the second ends 305B-305D bypredetermined distances Y2-Y4. Baffle floors 304B-304D may also extendat respective angles Ø_(4B), Ø_(4C), Ø_(4D) towards the second material224′.

Angle Ø_(4E), can be formed where the baffle floor 304A extends from thesecond end 305 of the baffle floors 304A toward the first end or wherethe second end 305A is attached to the second fabric 224. Angle Ø_(4E)can be an angle complementary to corresponding angle Ø_(4A), such thatØ_(4A and) Ø_(4E) add up to 90 degrees. Similarly, angles Ø_(4F),Ø_(4G), Ø_(4H) may be formed where the respective second ends of thebaffle floors 304B, 304C, and 304D are joined to the second fabric 224.

In some examples, the distances Y1-Y4 may be the same, but in otherexamples, one or more distances Y1-Y4 may differ. Similarly, in someexamples, the angles Ø4A, Ø4B, Ø4C, Ø4D may be the same, but in otherexamples, one or more angles Ø4A, Ø4B, Ø4C, Ø4D may differ. Similarly,the angles Ø4E, Ø4F, Ø4G, Ø4H may be the same, but in other examples,one or more angles Ø4E, Ø4F, Ø4G, Ø4H may differ from one another.

In the top plan view of the shell in an open position, as shown in FIG.16, the baffle walls 208′-208C′ are shown in an orientation identical tothe orientation of the baffle walls 208A-208C in FIGS. 8-10. As in theprevious embodiment, the first ends 207A′-207C′ of the baffle sidewallsand the second ends 209A′-209C′ of the baffle sidewalls can be offsetrelative to one another. Similarly, the remaining baffle sidewalls208D′-208L′ may have first and second ends that are offset relative toone another, as previously described. Additionally, as described withregard to FIGS. 10-10A, the baffle sidewalls 208A-208L may be angled orsloped. For instance, as shown, baffle sidewall 208C includes an angleØ3 _(A)′ and angle Ø3 _(B)′, as in the previous embodiment.

Floor openings can be provided in each of the chambers to allow for thefill material to reach all areas and chambers of the comforter. Openings282, as shown in FIG. 14, can be provided within each of the floors304A, 304B, and 304C adjacent the baffle sidewalls 208A′-L′. As in theprevious example, openings 282′ may be disposed within the floors304A-304C of each chamber 215A′-215L′. The openings 282 may bepositioned adjacent each of the baffle sidewalls and extend fullybetween the first fabric 222 and the intermediate fabric 250. In otherexamples, the openings may be positioned elsewhere within the floor ofthe chamber, such as further away from the baffle sidewalls.Additionally, the openings may not fully extend between the intermediatefabric and the first fabric 122′ or between the intermediate fabric 150′and the second fabric 124′. Further, the openings may be flappedopenings where a same or different material comprising the respectivefloors is attached to the sidewall and covers the openings 182. Theflaps can be opened or closed to allow for filling of the respectivechambers.

With reference to FIGS. 17-19, another example baffle comforter isshown. In this example, baffle comforter 400 includes features similarto the prior embodiments, except that only the baffle floor, and not thebaffle sidewalls, include ends that are offset relative to one another.Comforter 400 includes baffle floors 404A, 404B, 404C, and 404D.Additionally, a plurality of baffle sidewalls 209A″-209L″ areillustrated. As shown in FIGS. 17-18, baffle floor 304A′ include arespective first ends 301A′ that is attached to the first fabric 222″and a second end 305A′ attached to the second wall 224″. The first end301A′ and second end 405A may be offset relative to one another, aspreviously described herein. Similarly, the first ends 301B′, 301C′, and301D′ of baffle floors 304B′, 304C′, and 304D′ may be offset relative toeach of their respective second ends 305B′, 305C′, 305D′. As shown inFIG. 19, the ends of the baffle sidewalls are not offset relative to oneanother, as in previous embodiments. Rather, each of the ends of thesidewalls 208A″-2081″ extend perpendicular to the first and secondfabrics 222″, 224″, and along a same plane. In other examples, thesidewalls may be offset relative to one another so that they are notaligned with one another and a row of sidewalls may be offset withrespect to the directly adjacent row of sidewalls.

FIGS. 20-21 illustrate yet another alternative arrangement to FIGS.13-16. This example is identical to the embodiment of FIGS. 13-16,except that the comforter 500 further includes a gusset 510. Forinstance, as shown in FIGS. 20 and 21, each of the baffle sidewalls208A″′-208L″′ and each of the baffle floors 204A″′-204D″′ includes firstand second ends that are offset relative to one another, as in theembodiment of FIGS. 13-16. Instead of the first and second fabrics222″′, 224″′ being joined directly to one another, a gusset 510 may bedisposed between the first fabric 222″′ and second fabric 224″′. In someexamples, the gusset can allow the comforter 500 to maintain its fill upto the edge of the gusset 510.

In the examples discussed above, relative positions such as lateral,longitudinal, horizontal, vertical, top, bottom, and the like are usedfor reference only and are not intended to be limiting with respect toparticular positions of the elements they are used to describe. It is tobe appreciated that similar reference numerals were used to describesimilar elements.

It is to be further appreciated that any dimensions for components ofthe example comforters were provided as an example, but that otherdimensions can be implemented without departing from the spirit andscope of the disclosure.

Unless otherwise stated, the foregoing alternative examples are notmutually exclusive, but may be implemented in various combinations toachieve unique advantages. As these and other variations andcombinations of the features discussed above can be utilized withoutdeparting from the subject matter defined by the claims, the foregoingdescription of the embodiments should be taken by way of illustrationrather than by way of limitation of the subject matter defined by theclaims. In addition, the provision of the examples described herein, aswell as clauses phrased as “such as,” “for example,” “including” and thelike, should not be interpreted as limiting the subject matter of theclaims to the specific examples; rather, the examples are intended toillustrate only one of many possible embodiments.

1. A comforter comprising: a first fabric panel and a second fabricpanel joined together at their respective outer edges and forming anouter perimeter of the comforter, the outer perimeter including firstand second vertical edges and first and second lateral edges, the firstand second lateral edges extending between the first and second verticaledges and in a direction perpendicular to the first and second verticaledges; and a baffle floor extending between the first and secondvertical edges, the baffle floor having a first end attached to thefirst fabric panel and a second end attached to the second fabric panel,wherein the first end of the baffle floor is attached to the firstfabric at a first position and the second end of the baffle floor isattached to the second fabric panel at a second position, the first andsecond positions being vertically spaced apart from one another in adirection extending between the first and second lateral edges.
 2. Thecomforter of claim 1, further comprising a baffle sidewall extending ina direction between the first and second lateral edges, the bafflesidewall having a first end attached to the first fabric panel and asecond end attached to the second fabric panel, wherein the first end ofthe baffle sidewall is attached to the first fabric at a third positionand the second end of the baffle sidewall is attached to the secondfabric panel at a fourth position, the third and fourth positions beinglaterally spaced apart from one another in a direction extending betweenthe first and second vertical edges.
 3. The comforter of claim 1,wherein the first end of the baffle floor is spaced apart from thesecond end of the baffle floor by a length of at least 0.25 inches. 4.The comforter of claim 2, wherein the baffle floor has a slope rangingfrom 0 to 90 degrees.
 5. The comforter of claim 1, wherein the firstfabric panel is comprised of a first material and the baffle floor iscomprised of a different material than the first fabric panel.
 6. Thecomforter of claim 5, wherein the different material is a mesh material.7. The comforter of claim 2, further comprising a plurality of chambers,wherein the baffle floor forms a row, and the baffle sidewall is aplurality of baffle sidewalls positioned within the first row, each ofthe plurality of baffle sidewalls having a first end attached to thefirst fabric panel and a second end attached to the second fabric panel,the plurality of chambers formed by the intersection of the plurality ofsidewalls and the baffle floor.
 8. The comforter of claim 7, furthercomprising a fill material positioned within each of the plurality ofchambers.
 9. The comforter of claim 8, wherein the fill materialincludes a first fill material and a second fill material, the firstfill material being in at least one of the plurality of chambers and thesecond fill material being in at least one other of the plurality ofchambers, the first and second fill being the same.
 10. The comforter ofclaim 2, wherein the first end of the baffle floor is closer to thesecond vertical edge than the second end of the baffle floor, andwherein the first end of the baffle sidewall is closer to the firstvertical sidewall than the second end of the baffle sidewall.
 11. Amethod of manufacturing a comforter comprising: positioning a bafflefloor between a first fabric panel and second fabric panel; attaching afirst end of the baffle floor to the first fabric panel at a firstposition and a second end of the second baffle floor to the secondfabric panel at a second position so that the first position and thesecond position are spaced apart from one another in a verticaldirection extending between a first lateral edge and a second lateraledge of the first fabric panel; positioning a baffle sidewall between afirst fabric panel and second fabric panel so that the baffle sidewallintersects the baffle floor; attaching a first end of the bafflesidewall to the first fabric panel at a third point and a second end ofthe second baffle sidewall to the second fabric panel at a fourth pointso that the third point and the fourth point are spaced apart from oneanother in a lateral direction extending between a first vertical edgeand a second vertical edge of the first fabric panel, the first andsecond vertical edges extending in a direction perpendicular to thefirst and second lateral edges.
 12. The method of claim 11, furthercomprising forming at least one chamber by positioning the bafflesidewall adjacent the baffle floor so as to form an intersection betweenthe baffle sidewall and the baffle floor.
 13. The method of claim 12,further comprising filling the chamber with a fill material.
 14. Themethod of claim 11, wherein the first point is closer to the firstlateral edge than the second point.
 15. The method of claim 14, whereinthe third point is closer to the first vertical edge than the fourthpoint.
 16. A comforter comprising: a first fabric panel and a secondfabric panel joined together at their outer edges and forming an outerperimeter of the comforter, the outer perimeter including first andsecond vertical edges and first and second lateral edges extendingbetween the first and second vertical edges, the outer perimeter havinga first dimension; an intermediate fabric panel disposed between thefirst and second fabric panels, the intermediate fabric having outeredges joined to the outer edges of the first and second fabric panels,the intermediate fabric having a second dimension substantially equal tothe first dimension; a first baffle sidewall extending away from theintermediate fabric panel toward the first fabric panel; and a secondbaffle sidewall extending away from the intermediate fabric panel towardthe second fabric panel, wherein the first baffle sidewall is attachedto the intermediate fabric panel at a first position and the secondbaffle sidewall is attached to the intermediate fabric panel at a secondposition, the first and second positions being spaced apart from oneanother along the length of the intermediate fabric panel.
 17. Thecomforter of claim 16, wherein the comforter further comprises first andsecond channels formed on opposed sides of the intermediate fabricpanel, the first baffle sidewall being disposed within the first channeland the second baffle sidewall being disposed within the second channel.18. The comforter of claim 17, further comprising a first fill withinthe first channel and a second fill in the second channel, the first andsecond fills being comprised of a same material.
 19. The comforter ofclaim 17, further comprising a first fill within the first channel and asecond fill in the second channel, the first and second fills beingcomprised of different materials.
 20. The comforter of claim 16, whereinthe first fabric panel, the second fabric panel, and the intermediatefabric panel are each comprised of a material that is the same, andwherein the first baffle sidewall and the second baffle sidewall arecomprised of a different material than the same material, the differentmaterial being a mesh material.